Given hopes to improve Hart

02 February 2009 11:47

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New signing Shay Given has conceded his arrival at Manchester City may not be greeted warmly by every member of the squad.
The Republic of Ireland international completed his move from Newcastle United for an undisclosed fee, believed to be an initial £5.9million, on Sunday.
Given will become the number one keeper at Eastlands ahead of Joe Hart and the 32-year-old shot-stopper has admitted his England Under-21 team-mate may not be delighted with his arrival.
However, Given hopes he is able to pass on his knowledge to the youngster, who he believes will go on to enjoy a successful top-level career.
"I was so excited last night that I couldn't sleep. It will be like being a kid at a new school at training. I want to meet the lads, get to know my new surroundings and get down to work," he told the club's official website.
"It will be a little bit strange meeting Joe today for both of us, but I'm here to work hard and try and help him and Kasper (Schmeichel) improve too.
"I know I have a lot of work to do myself but I have a lot of experience that I can pass on.
"I have played in a World Cup, in the Champions League and in cup finals. They might not be all that happy to see me but I'd like to think that we can all work together and all improve together.
"I rate Joe highly. He's done fantastically well this season but he's still very young in goalkeeping terms.
"They say keepers don't reach their best until their 30s so I hope to peak soon! Joe is an exciting talent for England and for City."
Meanwhile, Schmeichel's agent claims his client is seeking to leave the City of Manchester Stadium on loan in a bid to play more first-team football.
The 22-year-old keeper has made just one substitute appearance in the Premier League for City this season.